Diabetes and infections: Is there a connection?

If you were recently diagnosed with diabetes and noticed an uptick in infections, no—those sick days aren’t just in your head. 

In fact, having high sugars in the blood can make it harder for the immune system to fight viruses and bacteria. This can lead to various infections throughout the body, including on the foot, ear, and elsewhere.

Here, Grace Lee, M.D., section head for Endocrinology and Diabetes at Virginia Mason Medical Center in Seattle, explains what those infections are, and simple ways to keep your immune system healthy.

Four Common Infections to Watch For 

1. Yeast infections
High levels of sugar can lead to yeast infections, Dr. Lee says. And fungal infections can appear in moist, dark areas, like the groin, stomach folds, and armpits. “Fungi likes to attach to skin, and due to high sugars, it’s harder for the body to clear [the infection],” Dr. Lee says.

2. Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
People with diabetes are twice as likely to get urinary tract infections (UTIs) due to immune system issues.

3. Foot infections
Diabetes can impair nerves on the feet and make cuts not as noticeable, so Dr. Lee suggests checking them daily. “You are more prone to getting athlete’s foot,” says Dr. Lee. It’ll feel like itching, stinging, or burning between the toes, and may cause skin cracking. Change your socks daily, and wash and dry feet carefully. If you notice changes in your foot health, call your doctor. 

4. Ear infections
Certain types of bacterial ear infections are slightly more common in people with diabetes, especially those that occur after exposure to water. Tell your doctor about any ear pain you experience.

Keep Your Immune System in Shape

1. Don’t forget your flu shot!  
People with diabetes are more likely to get the flu and pneumonia and are three times more likely to die from these illnesses. But it’s best not to wait—get the flu shot in September before flu season starts. Ask your doctor when you should get a pneumonia vaccine. Plus, you can get a COVID-19 vaccine and a flu vaccine at the same time, including a COVID-19 booster shot. 

2. Invest in self-care
If you suspect you have an infection, call your doctor. Then be sure to take the best care of yourself that you can. Eat nutritious foods, take your medication as directed, and get plenty of sleep. High sugars can also make you urinate more, so be sure to drink extra water to avoid dehydration if you have an infection. Monitor your sugars frequently as well. If you have an infection and your blood sugar levels are rising, call your doctor.